Pawel “Raging Bull” Wolak; Unbeaten Pawel Wolak coming right back Sat. March 15 at Madison Square Garden in NYC; Who Is Pawel Wolak..road to success

Pawel “Raging Bull” Wolak, career path recap of 2007

NEW YORK– New IBA America’s middleweight champion Pawel “Raging Bull” Wolak, fresh off of his fourth-round TKO of “Flawless” Dan Wallace (9-2, 3 KOs) last Friday night in Long Island, will come right back November 15th headlining a show promoted by Bob Duffy’s Ring Promotions at Roseland Ballroom in Manhattan.

The New York State junior middleweight champion Wolak (17-0, 12 KOs), fighting out of Brooklyn, is rated No. 11 by both the NABF and NABO. The graduate of Berkley College in Manhattan has become a popular draw, particularly among passionate Polish fight fans, and his non-stop, exciting style attracts more supporters each fight.

“Pawel’s one of the most dedicated guys in this sport,” promoter Bob Duffy said. “Every day he’s training for 2-2 ½ hours at Gleason’s. He wants to improve every day. Pawel’s the best 154-pound prospect on the East Coast. There’s no dog in this kid. He’s 100-percent a fighter whose heart and determination ends up in a winning performance. He has good management and training teams and I’ve really enjoyed working with them as his acting promoter.”




Wolak set to make statement on Friday’s Long Island card

NEW YORK– Unbeaten Polish prospect Pawel “Raging Bull” Wolak plans to make a statement tomorrow night (Friday, September 14) against “Flawless” Dan Wallace (9-1, 3 KOs) in the 10 round main event for the IBA Americas middleweight championship, headlining a pro boxing show promoted by Frankie “G” Promotions and Ring Promotions, at the Huntington Hilton Hotel in Melville, Long Island.

New York State junior middleweight champion Wolak (16-0, 11 KOs), now fighting out of Brooklyn, has moved up in the ratings to No. 11 in both the NABF and NABO. A graduate of Berkley College in Manhattan, Pawel has developed into one of the hottest young fighters on the East Coast, capturing the hearts and minds of his growing legion of passionate Polish fans.

“I saw Wallace fight on ESPN against Walter Wright,” Wolak said. “I think he’s made for me – tall with a long body. I like to body punch and I’ve trained against a lot of guys like him. This fight shouldn’t be a problem at all. I’m going to put on a show for my fans. It took Wright eight rounds to take him out. I hope to get it done quicker and show that I’m a strong fighter. I’m going to press a lot, relentlessly, slip punches and deliver shots to the head and body. I want to stop it early.

“I don’t look too far ahead. All I’m really thinking about is this fight. I know what I want to accomplish in the future, but I’m taking everything one step at a time. I’m going to be in the best shape of my life. Each fight I want to learn from, too. I’m going to make a strong statement against Wallace.”

Two unbeaten light heavyweights – multiple European and Irish amateur champion Alo Kelley (2-0, 1 KO) and Reggie “Concrete” LaCrete (4-0, 3 KOs) – square-off in the six-round co-feature. Kelley is an Irish Ropes stablemate of middleweight sensation “Ireland’s” John Duddy, while LaCrete is managed by the famed Jackie Kallen (her life story was made into the movie Against the Ropes starring Meg Ryan).

In another six-round welterweight bout popular Long Island fighter Mike Ruiz (3-2, 2 KOs) takes on Jessie Gomez (1-3) in a battle of native New Yorkers.

Former Irish National Senior amateur champion Henry “Western Warrior” Coyle (2-1, 1 KO) faces pro debuting Robert Kimbrough in a four-round bout. Also on the undercard (all four-round bouts) is local favorite and 2-time New York Golden Gloves champion Nagy Aquilera (1-0, 1 KO), of Newburgh (NY), against Bronx heavyweight Rubin Bracero (2-5, 1 KO); 2007 New York Golden Gloves champion Joseph Llovet, of Bayshore (NY), makes his pro debut versus Leon Williams (0-2); Russian light heavyweight Sergie Kravencho (3-0, 3 KOs), trained by Don Turner, meets Brooklyn’s pro debuting Borngod Williams; Long Island super middleweight Issac Holden and Brooklyn’s Oliver Osumpa make their pro debuts fighting each other.


NEW YORK– Polish power-punching middleweight prospect Pawel “Raging Bull” Wolak takes on ”Flawless” Dan Wallace (9-1, 3 KOs) in the 10 round main event for the IBA Americas middleweight championship, headlining a pro boxing show promoted by Frankie “G” Productions and Ring Promotions, Friday night (September 14) at the Huntington Hilton Hotel in Melville, Long Island.

The Polish-born Wolak (16-0, 11 KOs), now fighting out of Brooklyn, is the reigning New York State middleweight champion, as well as a graduate of Berkley College in Manhattan. The immensely popular Wolak’s exciting straight ahead style of attack quickly has made him into one of the hottest young fighters on the East Coast. He is rated No. 11 by both the NABF and NABO.

“Pawel Wolak is New York City’s new rising star,” promoter Bob Duffy said. “He’s one of the hottest boxers around and his following, especially in the Polish community, grows with each fight. His action-packed fights and passionate fans give shows a festival atmosphere.”

Two unbeaten light heavyweights clash In the six-round co-feature – multiple European and Irish amateur champion Alo Kelley (2-0, 1 KO) versus Reggie “Concrete” LaCrete (4-0, 3 KOs), managed by the famed Jackie Kallen (her life story was made into the movie Against the Ropes starring Meg Ryan).

Ireland-native Kelley is an Irish Ropes stablemate of middleweight sensation “Ireland’s” John Duddy. “We think a lot of Alo,” Irish Ropes president Eddie McLoughlin noted. “We’re moving up the bar faster than we did with Duddy because of Alo’s age (29). I’ve always been confident in Alo’s ability and we’re already putting him in defining fights, starting with LaCrete, who is 4-0 with three knockouts.”

Long Island welterweight Mike Ruiz (3-2, 2 KOs) fights fellow New Yorker Jessie Gomez (1-3) in a six-round bout.

Former Irish National Senior amateur champion Henry “Western Warrior” Coyle (2-1, 1 KO) is scheduled to fight an opponent to be determined in a four-round bout. Also on the undercard, all in four-round bouts, is local favorite and unbeaten welterweight 2-time New York Golden Gloves champion Nagy Aguilera (1-0, 1 KO), of Newburgh (NY), versus Bronx heavyweight Rubin Bracero (2-5, 1 KO), Shirley (NY) featherweight Kristian “K-Smooth” Vasquez (1-0, 1 KO) takes on Jose Ortiz (1-0, 1 KO), 2007 New York Golden Gloves champion Joseph Llovet, of Bayshore (NY), makes his pro debut against Leon Williams (0-2), Russian light heavyweight Sergie Kravencho (3-0, 3 KOs), trained by Don Turner, faces Brooklyn’s pro debuting Borngod Williams, Long Island super middleweight Issac Holden makes his pro debut against New Jersey’s Rafal Jastrewbski (0-4).

Team Wolak, Keisha and Pawel Wolak


Tickets are on sale and priced at $1,700.00 for a VIP Ringside table that includes a one-hour cocktail party and full course dinner served at ringside (all beverages included), $100.00 (golden ringside), $75.00 (ringside) and $40.00 (general admission. To purchase tickets or for additional information call Academy of Boxing (631.673.3520), Frankie G (631.334.4862), Bob Duffy (516.313.2304) and Music Planet in Brooklyn (718.383.2051). The first bout is slated for 7:30 PM/ET.

Eileen Olszewski: “Hawaiian Mongoose” Hungry for Titles; by David Pambianchi

Eileen Olszewski: “Hawaiian Mongoose” Hungry for Titles; by David Pambianchi

Photo by Marty Rosengarten/RingsidePhotos.com


With about 5 different Title Belts, conflicting point systems, weight classifications so close that a fighter can eat a cheeseburger deluxe and move
from one division to another, and home advantages that make you wonder if the judges saw the same fight, who’s the Champ? Women’s Boxing manager, David
Selwyn, claims to know the answer.

“Many promoters and managers match their fighters with low risk Chopped Liver,” Dave’s way of saying “ Soft Matches,” fighters with little skill and/or experience against tougher opponents. Fearless of any risk he states, “We look to fight the best. In her class, Eileen Olszewski is the strongest fighter out there with endurance to back it up and will defeat anyone in the Flyweight (112lbs.) Division.”

While a helpful guide, point systems do not tell a complete story. WBAN ranks Eileen and WBC titleholder Stefania Bianchini even for #1 with WBA titleholder Susi Kentikian #5. BOXREC’s point system, a compilation of points derived from a ratio of win/loss opponent percentages, ranks Eileen at #2 and Susi “Killer Queen”
Kentikian as #1. But fans do not want to see a numbers game or a fight on paper. They want action in the ring.

Months before Eileen captured the WIBA title from Elena “Baby Doll” Reid in February, her manager repeatedly attempted to contact the “Killer Queen” team to gobble up their WBA belt. “They keep ducking us. You know, Don’t call us, we’ll call you, out to lunch, have to walk my dog, Auvidersein. It was WIBA President
Ryan Wissow who informed promoter Steve Bash that a bout between Eileen and Elena Reid would be a good match.

Eileen Olszewski and Elena “Baby Doll” Reid

But it seems that in Germany they’re afraid that the 39 year old (5-0), ‘Hawaiian Mongoose’ will make a quick meal of the 20 year old so called (20-0), ‘Killer Queen.’ It’s embarrassing, too many fighters bragging
about wins and titles, and they haven’t fought anyone tougher than grandma. Better to risk losing like a Champ, than beating easy opponents like a Chump.” In the mean time, Eileen’s appetite for belts focuses on the WBC title. Mandated to fight the winner of the Stefania Bianchini vs. Simona Galassi March 29th 2008 title bout in Italy, “The Hawaiian Mongoose” leaves the victor no place to hide.
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JAKE SHIELDS, DREW FICKETT READY TO BELT IT OUT FOR VACANT ELITEXC WELTERWEIGHT WORLD TITLE

Joey Villasenor, ‘Cyborg’ Santos Clash in One of Top ‘Shamrock vs. Le’ Undercard Bouts, On Fantastic Event Saturday, March 29, At HP Pavilion in San Jose, Calif.; Tickets On Sale

LOS ANGELES– Weeks after he was awarded a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt, Jake Shields will try to add another belt to his wardrobe when he faces Drew Fickett for the vacant EliteXC world welterweight crown March 29, at HP Pavilion in San Jose, Calif.

In another outstanding match on a sensational mixed martial arts card headlined by a Strikeforce middleweight title fight between defending champion Frank Shamrock and Cung Le, former Pride Fighting Championship star Evangelista “Cyborg” Santos will throw down with EliteXC standout Joey “Dream Smasher” Villasenor in a middleweight scrap.

Tickets, starting at $30, are on sale at HP Pavilion (408) 287-7070, at Ticketmaster locations (408) 998-TIXS, Ticketmaster online (www.ticketmaster.com), EliteXC’s official website (www.ProElite.com) and Strikeforce’s official website (www.Strikeforceusa.net). Doors will open at 5 p.m. The first live fight is at 6 o’clock PT.

“A fight between popular Bay Area major draws and arch-rivals, the legendary Frank Shamrock and the unbeaten sensation, Cung Le, could sell out San Jose by itself, but this fight card will end up stacked from top to bottom,’’ EliteXC Live Events President Gary Shaw said.

The stellar eight-bout event will mark the second collaboration between Los Angeles-based ProElite, Inc.’s EliteXC, and Strikeforce. The first, which featured Shamrock versus Phil Baroni on June 22, 2007, in San Jose, was a major success.

“The HP Pavilion is a terrific venue that’s always drawn some of the biggest crowds in MMA,’’ Shaw said. “With the addition of a Shields-Fickett EliteXC world title fight and a great fight between Villasenor and Santos, fans in attendance and those watching on SHOWTIME will be treated to an outstanding night of fights.

“Jake’s been waiting to prove he’s the world’s best middleweight and now he gets his chance against a tough, talented veteran like Fickett. The Villasenor-Santos fight will be a war.’’
In addition to the three aforementioned fights, two more bouts will be televised live on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the west coast). Fans can watch pre- and post-fight interviews at ProElite.com.
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SHIELDS-FICKETT, VILLASENOR-SANTOS ADDED TO SENSATIONAL MMA EVENT MARCH 29
Regarding the recently added matches, Strikeforce CEO Scott Coker said: “The Shields-Fickett and Santos-Villasenor fights are both highly competitive matchups, each bringing together fighters who are amongst the best in their area of expertise.

“In one, you have two heavy-handed punchers, almost guaranteeing there will be a knockout. In the other, you have two exceptional ground technicians who can submit an opponent from virtually any position on the mat.

“These are the types of fights that make MMA so great and unique and we're looking forward to bringing them to San Jose.’’

The 170-pound title fight between Shields (20-4-1) and Fickett (31-5) will be a fun and terrific technical fight between two modest but supremely confident and talented submission artists in perhaps the toughest tests in their careers.

The winner will become EliteXC’s first world champ at welterweight and third overall. Robbie Lawler (middleweight) and KJ Noons (lightweight) are the other EliteXC belt-holders.
Unbeaten since December 2004 and a winner of nine in a row, including two straight by submission, Shields (http://jakeshields.proelite.com) has long been regarded as a monster in his weight class. Now, he has an opportunity to not only prove it but add even more credibility to his well-established name.
“This is my dream come true and I’m really excited,’’ said Shields, who re-signed with EliteXC in November 2007 and has gone 2-0 since. In impressive performances on SHOWTIME, Shields defeated “Charuto” Verissimo (strikes) and Mike Pyle (rear naked choke).
Shields, 29, a life-long vegetarian who was raised in a remote area in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of Northern California, holds notable victories over Dave Menne, Carlos Condit, Yushin Okami and Hayato “Mach” Sakurai.
“It was a little frustrating but I knew if I was patient my time would come and I’d get my shot at a world belt,’’ Shields said. “In a way it was a blessing in disguise I had to wait so long on the sidelines. I fought a lot of top 25 guys. That wealth of experience I gained is a great asset.
“This really is a good fight. I respect Drew. He’s game, experienced. I just think I’ll be too much. I’m going to overwhelm him, make an example of him. It’s a little nerve-wracking because I’ll have so many friends there, but it’s exciting to be fighting at the HP Pavilion.
“I am proud to be fighting for the EliteXC world title. They have treated me well, they have grown continually and now they’ve really blown up. I look forward to wearing and keeping the EliteXC belt around my waist for a while and representing the organization with pride.’’
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SHIELDS-FICKETT, VILLASENOR-SANTOS ADDED TO SENSATIONAL MMA EVENT MARCH 29
Fickett (http://drewfickett.proelite.com) is no stranger to major fights and won’t crumble under the pressure of being on the big stage and under the bright lights. He’s fully aware this is his chance to demonstrate he is among the world’s best in MMA.
“I’m definitely taking this fight seriously and am pretty motivated that’s for sure,’’ said Fickett, who could be Shields’ sternest challenge since Jake defeated Condit and Okami in back-to-back performances in April 2006. “I’m up for the challenge. Jake’s awesome. Some say he’s boring, but he chokes everybody and I like that. It’s cool and sounds pretty exciting to me.
“Jake has a real methodical game, but he’s smart and uses his strengths well. We both have a really competitive attitude so I guess we are similar in that regard. Style-wise, we may negate each other’s strengths, so that could mean this will wind up a pretty exciting fight.
“This is the kind of fight that I hope and expect will bring out the best in each of us.’'
A winner of three in a row, Fickett, 28, who was born in Tucson, Ariz., and resides in Phoenix, has a solid resume. He’s faced excellent opposition and owns wins over Kenny Florian, Josh Koscheck, Kurt Pellegrino, Josh Neer, Dennis Hallman, Carlo Prater and Edwin Dewees.
“I’ve been in and out of organizations and fought some great opponents, maybe not at the time but they were always very formidable and in the top 10,’’ said Fickett, who is coming off a first-round submission (rear naked choke) over Mark Weir on Dec. 1, 2007 in London.
A perennial contender at this weight, the experienced Fickett may be underrated by some but his record is as impressive as Shields’ – if not more so. “It’s hard to say if beat better guys because it all depends at where you are at – and everybody’s good at this level,’’ Fickett said.
Like Shields, Fickett is well-versed in the submission game and has forced opponents to surrender in nearly two thirds of his wins (20). Shields has won three of his last four fights by submission and has a total of seven in his career.
“Whatever way it ends, I will be 100 percent ready to go five rounds,’’ Fickett said. “No one wants to get into the fourth or fifth rounds and get tired and maybe get hurt.’’
Fickett, who says his “last win is always the most important,’’ will be making his initial start for EliteXC. “I really like to be able to travel and do my own thing,’’ he said. “Gary (Shaw) has been very cool about signing me to an open contract which would enable me to do so.’’
Santos, 30, a member of Brazil’s famed Chute Boxe squad, will be making his United States debut as well as the first of three fights he signed to compete for Strikeforce. A former light heavy (205 pounds), it will be the second bout of his 11-year career contested at 185.
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SHIELDS-FICKETT, VILLASENOR-SANTOS ADDED TO SENSATIONAL MMA EVENT MARCH 29
“I always look for the knockout,” said Santos, a stone-faced striker whose go-for-broke, crowd-pleasing approach has helped him record 11 KOs out of his 15 victories. “This will be a duel between his boxing and my Muay Thai techniques. Villasenor is an ideal opponent for me.”
The bout with Villasenor will be Santos’ second in less than a month. In Tokyo March 5, he displayed vicious striking to twice knock down Makoto Takimoto en route to submitting (heel hook) the Olympic Games judo gold medalist in the first round and to snap a two-bout losing streak.
“Last year was a tough year for Chute Box and to those who fought in PRIDE, so it was important for me to get off to a good start in 2008,’’ Santos said. “The people who like to watch fights can always count on me to fight with determination and give it my all.
“Anybody who faces me knows they will have hard moments in the cage. My opponents know they need to get ready for a war because as long as I can breathe, I'll look for the win. I'm not saying I'll beat everybody, but I'll exchange blows with everybody. You can count on it.’’
Villasenor (http://drewfickett.proelite.com), a native of Albuquerque, N.M., and a protégé of MMA guru, Greg Jackson, will be seeking his second consecutive victory for EliteXC. Villasenor was penciled in to face Joe Riggs, but Riggs withdrew with a back injury.
In his last outing, Villasenor regained his winning ways with a hard-fought, split decision over Riki Fukuda on “Uprising’’ Sept. 15, 2007, in Honolulu, on SHOWTIME. It came one start after Villasenor suffered a second-round TKO to “Ninja’’ Rua for the EliteXC 185-pound title.
“There should be some real fireworks in this fight with Santos,” Villasenor, 32, a former King of the Cage champion said. “I really don’t know much about Santos’ ground game – if he even likes hanging out on the ground. I know he’s a big banger so it’s an exciting matchup.
“I need to be more technical than him and be better conditioned. Like wine, I think I get better with age. People should look for a more technically sound Joey Villasenor in 2008. This will be a great fight to kick off the year with.”
About ProElite:
ProElite Inc. [PELE.PK] delivers the most exciting entertainment experience in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA) with live arena-based entertainment events, cable television programming on Showtime Networks and community-driven interactive broadband entertainment via the Internet. ProElite embraces MMA with the highest levels of honor, integrity, discipline and self-esteem all the while remaining inclusive for fighters, fans and schools. ProElite’s live fight division, EliteXC, delivers spectacular live MMA fight events that showcase the world’s top fighters [elitexc.com]. ProElite’s interactive business, ProElite.com, capitalizes on the growing popularity of the sport of mixed martial arts by building a community of MMA enthusiasts. In addition to streaming the most exciting live fights to the web, ProElite expands the fan base of the sport by providing a comprehensive set of online social networking tools for fans, fighters and organizations. ProElite.com – Empowering the Fight Community TM
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SHIELDS-FICKETT, VILLASENOR-SANTOS ADDED TO SENSATIONAL MMA EVENT MARCH 29
About Strikeforce:
Strikeforce is a world-class mixed martial arts cage fight promotion which, on Friday, March 10, 2006, made history with its “Shamrock vs. Gracie” event, the first sanctioned mixed martial arts fight card in California state history. The star-studded extravaganza, which pitted legendary champion Frank Shamrock against Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt Cesar Gracie at San Jose’s HP Pavilion, played host to a sold-out, record crowd of 18,265. Since 1995, Strikeforce has been the exclusive provider of martial arts programming for ESPN and, after 12 years of success as a leading, world championship kickboxing promotion, the company unveiled its mixed martial arts series with “Shamrock vs. Gracie.” Since then, it has co-produced the first SHOWTIME PPV mixed martial arts event in history with its world championship “Shamrock vs. Baroni” card on June 22nd of this year followed by the first-ever mixed martial arts event at the world-famous Playboy Mansion on September 29th.
Contacts:
Mike Afromowitz, Strikeforce
John Beyrooty, EliteXC/BZA

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Don King presents; "Pride of St. Louis", IBF junior middleweight champion Cory Spinks & protege Devon Alexander

Don King presents; "Pride of St. Louis", IBF junior middleweight champion Cory Spinks & protege Devon Alexander, the WBC Continental Americas champion

Don King formally announced IBF junior middleweight champion Cory Spinks and his protege Devon Alexander, the WBC Continental Americas champion, will both be featured on the "Pride of St. Louis" card at Scottrade Center on Thursday, March 27. Spinks will defend his IBF junior middleweight crown opposing former three-time world champion Verno Phillips. Alexander will make the first defense of his World Boxing Council Continental Americas title, opposing Miguel Callist in a continental title unification match.

Cory Spinks


Devon Alexander 'The Great'


Contact: Alan Hopper, DKP

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Ladbrokes.com Fight Night - Murray a fighter even before he donned the Gloves

Ladbrokes.com Fight Night - Murray a fighter even before he donned the Gloves

Even before Andrew Murray put on a pair of boxing gloves it was obvious he was a true fighter. The Cavan man is the current Irish Light Welterweight champion and one of the country’s hottest boxing prospects but there were few signs in Murray’s childhood that a career between the ropes lay in store.

Andrew Murray


His early years were blighted by Perthes disease, a degenerative hip condition that left him wheelchair bound for extended periods. However Murray was transfixed by the epic battles between the likes of Chris Eubank and Nigel Benn on his TV screen and he was desperate to step between the ropes himself.

However Murray’s notions were discouraged by his doctor who insisted that if he boxed he would end up crippled for life before he reached 20. The determined youngster ignored his advice and joined Cavan boxing club. Now 25 Murray is unbeaten in 9 pro fights and a reigning Irish Champion.

He will put his Light welterweight title on the line on March 22nd when he defends against Belfast’s James Gorman on the Ladbrokes.com Fight Night at the National Stadium in Dublin. The contest is the chief supporting bout to the clash between Irish middleweight champ Matthew Macklin and former World Champion Yori Boy Campas.

Murray though will be determined to steal the spotlight in his Irish title rematch with Gorman. The two men clashed for the first time last December when they met at the Kings Hall. Murray emerged victorious but he wasn’t particularly satisfied at the outcome given the circumstances of the win.

A clash of heads left Murray with a nasty gash over his right eye and unable to continue in the fourth round. Under Boxing Union of Ireland rules the decision went to the referee’s scorecard and Murray was awarded the win but he admits it was something of a hollow victory.

“When you win you want to win in style so to win the way I did took a bit of the shine off it,” said Murray. “You never want to win a fight on cuts so I still don’t class myself as the champion yet. Hopefully I can beat Gorman in Dublin and leave no doubts this time around.”

Murray is probably the quietest, most unassuming professional boxer you could ever meet. In a sport often dominated by hype and hysteria the Cavan man is refreshingly understated. Regarded as one of the best kept secrets in the UK and Ireland Murray is more than happy to let his first do all his talking. His amateur accomplishments certainly speak volumes for his professional prospects.

A 3 time Irish Senior Champion Murray was also a fixture on the International amateur circuit winning numerous Gold medals for Ireland at Multi Nations events.

His amateur coach Brian McKeown remembers Murray’s first day in the gym as an 11 year old. “He was tall and gangly and you could see he clearly had a problem with his leg. He didn’t strike me as being special but what soon became apparent was how determined and dedicated he was. He actually lost his first fight but by the end of that season he was Irish Champion and he went on to win another 3 on the trot. In fact he was unbeaten for 4 and a half years in the amateurs.”

Murray took some impressive scalps in the unpaid ranks including current British Light Middleweight champion, Gary Woolcombe, who he stopped in 2 rounds. He also beat former British title challengers Femi Fehintola and Ricky Burns as well as English amateur star Michael Grant.

After the frustration of failing to qualify for the Athens Olympics in 2004 Murray decided to switch to the pro ranks and relocate to London under manager Michael Helliet.

“Andrew’s problem since going pro is that he’s been too good for his own good,” said McKeown. “He’s sparred the best in the U.K. in the gyms there and everyone there knows how good he is so nobody wants to fight him. Thankfully the professional boxing scene is very healthy in Ireland now so Andrew has a chance to make a name for himself back at home again.”

Certainly boxing in Cavan is on a real high right now with McKeown’s latest protégé John Joe Nevin having qualified for the Olympics.

“Andrew’s a real inspiration for all the kids boxing in Cavan," said McKeown. "He’s out running at 5 in the morning, into work for 7 and then he trains at the gym in the evening. He’s very popular in the area and travels around all the clubs here giving training sessions and helping out wherever he’s needed. You never want to look too far ahead but I think over the next 12 – 18 months with the right fights Andrew can start fulfilling the potential we all know he has.”

The Ladbrokes.com Fight Night also features Cuban heavyweight sensation Mike Perez and the pro debut of Irish amateur heavyweight champion Ian Tims amongst other bouts.


Tickets for the Ladrokes.com Fight Night priced from €60 are on sale now from Ticketmaster.ie and all usual outlets.

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Shoulder injury temporarily sidelines Mesi; Mesi returns vs. Smith Olympian Estrada battles Whitaker ESPN2 Friday Night Fights, April 4

Shoulder injury temporarily sidelines Mesi; Mesi returns vs. Smith Olympian Estrada battles Whitaker ESPN2 Friday Night Fights, April 4 at Twin River Event Center, RI

PROVIDENCE– A shoulder muscle tear has forced “Baby” Joe Mesi to withdraw from his April 4th fight against Terry “Hurricane” Smith, headlining an ESPN2 Friday Night Fights pro boxing show, at Twin River Events Center in Lincoln, Rhode Island. Mesi is under doctor’s orders to rest his injured shoulder for three to four weeks.

Joe suffered a posterior and interior labral tear. The labrum is a cuff of cartilage, or thick tissue, in the shoulder joint that forms a cup for the end of the arm bone (humerus) to move within, allowing for a very wide range of movements. An injury like this restricts a boxer from throwing an effective punch with proper movement or without pain.

“Joe is terribly disappointed,” Mesi’s father/advisor Jack Mesi reported. “His promoter, Jimmy Burchfield, positioned Joe back on ESPN2 Friday Night Fights, which is the plateau we hoped Joe would reach at this stage. This is just a temporary setback, that’s all. Joe will continue training to stay in good shape and keep his weight down, but he can’t do anything that involves using his shoulder. He’s still running and exercising. In three weeks he’ll be reevaluated and once the doctor clears him, Joe wants to get back in the ring as soon as possible.”

Buffalo sports icon Mesi (36-0, 29 KOs), former NABF heavyweight champion, currently rated No. 17 by the WBC and the WBC No. 1 contender in 2004, has beaten the likes of Vassiliy Jirov, Monte Barrett, DaVarryl Williamson, and David Izon.

“Joe’s shoulder injury isn’t too serious, but it’s a situation where he just couldn’t train because of it, and still be ready in time to fight April 4,” Burchfield, president of Classic Entertainment & Sports, Inc., explained. “We’re thankful for the support and understanding at ESPN2 and Twin River. Next week, we’ll announce who’ll be fighting on the April 4th ESPN2 show. 2004 US Olympian Jason ‘Big Six’ Estrada is still fighting 6-foot, 8-inch ‘Mount’ Whitaker in a 10-round heavyweight bout. Joe’s worked so hard in his comeback and it’s a shame that he can’t fight April 4. His time will come, though. Joe Mesi is going to be heavyweight champion of the world.”



April 4 Mesi returns vs. Smith Olympian Estrada battles Whitaker ESPN2 Friday Night Fights, April 4 at Twin River Event Center, RI

PROVIDENCE– Classic Entertainment and Sports, Inc. president Jimmy Burchfield has formally announced unbeaten world heavyweight challenger “Baby” Joe Mesi’s returns to the ring on April 4 against Terry “Hurricane” Smith, headlining an ESPN2 Friday Night Fights pro boxing show in the 10-round main event, at Twin River Events Center in Lincoln, Rhode Island. Mesi will make his first defense of the WBC USNBC title belt he won last October with a first-round stoppage of Shannon Miller.

2004 U.S. Olympian and top heavyweight prospect, Jason “Big Six” Estrada, steps up in class to take on former world title challenger Lance “Mount” Whitaker in the 10-round co-feature.

“This is a major league show on ESPN2,” promoter Burchfield said. “These four heavyweights have a combined record of 109-9-2 with 76 knockouts. These are big men, real heavyweights, averaging 6’ 3” and 238-pounds. Joe is on a mission to fight for the world heavyweight title and Smith will be a solid test. Nobody has stopped him and he’s been in against a lot of top heavyweights like world heavyweight challengers Calvin Brock and Jameel McCline. Jason is going to make a lot of noise in 2008, starting with Whitaker, who fought (Luan) Krasniqi for the WBO belt, and knocked out world champion Oleg Maskaev. Mesi is going to be a force again in the heavyweight division very soon; Estrada’s a future world champion in the making.”

Buffalo sports icon Mesi (36-0, 29 KOs), former NABF heavyweight champion, currently rated No. 17 by the WBC, was the WBC No. 1 contender in 2004, before an injury and controversial suspension sidelined him for two years. Mesi’s 36 victims include Vassiliy Jirov, Monte Barrett, DaVarryl Williamson, and David Izon.

Unbeaten in his first 21 pro defeats, former NABO title challenger Smith (30-4-1, 18 KOs), fighting out of Little Rock (AR), defeated former world champion Kelvin Davis last May.

Estrada (11-1, 2 KOs), 27, completed his amateur career in the U.S. with a remarkable record of 261-14, going unbeaten in America four years after the 2000 Olympic Trials. The Providence-native became the first boxer to win both the U.S. Nationals and U.S.Challenge three years (2001-2003) in a row. In only his seventh pro fight, Jason went the full 10 rounds against veteran Robert Wiggin, winning a complete shutout (100-90 three times). Estrada won a unanimous 10-round decision versus former world title challenger Charles Shufford in his last fight on January 25.

In addition to his win against Maskaev, the 6’ 8” Whitaker (32-4-1, 27) has also beaten former world title-holder Al “Ice” Cole, previously unbeaten Robert Davis (22-0), and 2-time world title challenger Monte Barrett.

Tickets will go on sale March 15. Contact CES (401.724.2253/2254/www.cesboxing.com) or Twin River Events Center (877.82.RIVER/ www.twinriver.com) for more information.

CONTACT: Bob Trieger, Full Court Press
boxing entertainment fight sports mixed martial arts special events sports worldwide

'Never Back Down'; The Movie in Theatres Now

'Never Back Down' The Movie



boxing entertainment fight sports mixed martial arts special events sports worldwide

Join our Harlem Renaissance Road Race table for the 38th National Salute to Black Achievers in Industry Awards Dinner, Thursday, March 20, 2008

Join our Harlem Renaissance Road Race table for the 38th National Salute to Black Achievers in Industry Awards Dinner, Thursday, March 20, 2008, 5:00 – 9:30 PM Broadway Ballroom, New York Marriott Marquis, 1535 Broadway at 45th Street, New York, New York. Ticket Price is $ 300 per person
“Achievement Matters…Building Success
Keynote Speaker

Carla Harris is a Managing Director, in Global Capital Markets at Morgan Stanley. She heads the equity capital markets effort for Financial Sponsors, Retail Industry and is responsible for Equity Private Placements.

Dr. Leo B. Marsh Memorial Award Recipient

Hazel N. Dukes is President of the NAACP New York State Conference and a member of the NAACP National Board of Directors,

Please RSVP by March 18th call 917-478-1390. Thanks !!

Preston
KingPreston@RCN.com
212-594-4715 Fax
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Join WRFG’s “Tower of Power” Celebration!; You’re Invited to Celebrate this Momentous Achievement; live music, awards, fun raffles and good fellowship

Join WRFG’s “Tower of Power” Celebration!; You’re Invited to Celebrate this Momentous Achievement; live music, awards, fun raffles and good fellowship

Beverages and food available for purchase from Cenci’s sumptuous vegetarian menu,
and after the celebration, the party continues, The Global Drumbeat 2nd Anniversary Party, Dance to the intoxicating rhythms of African, Latin, American and
Caribbean music as some of your favorite WRFG DJs’ spin deep into the night.

Saturday, March 15, 10:00p until
Cenci Restaurant
1259 Glenwood Avenue, Atlanta
Admission - $5.00

WRFG 89.3 FM
Your Station for Progressive Information
404-523-3471 - www.wrfg.org
boxing entertainment fight sports mixed martial arts special events sports worldwide

March 15 Harlem Townhall Meeting: 125th Rezoning, Gentrification and Paterson‏

HARLEM TENANTS COUNCIL

TOWNHALL MEETING

Gentrification Tasmanian Hits Harlem With a Bang

Get on the Unity Boat to Save Harlem!
Are you fed up with high rent, shoddy or no repairs, no heat & hot water, luxury condos all over Harlem with few if any local residents getting jobs, the silence of elected officials, the rezoning of 125th Street, Columbia University's Expansion, eminent domain abuse, developments all over East, West and Central for the wealthy and rich corporation. IF SO, JOIN US ON:

Saturday, March 15, 2008 (1 PM to 4 PM) Harriet Tubman School (Auditorium)
250 West 127th Street(Between Adam Clayton Powell and Frederick Douglass Blvds)

*** David Paterson: New York's Next Governor?

What will it Mean for Harlem?

Opening Session: A Demand for Action from Elected Officials

Invited: New York City Council Members Inez Dickens, Robert Jackson and Melissa Mark Viverto; State Assemblyman Keith Wright, State Senator Bill Perkins, Congressman Charles Rangel and Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer.
Tenant Education & Empowerment: Review of Legislation & Public Policies

Presenter: Joe Lamport, Citywide Task Force on Housing Court

Campaign for Civil Right to Counsel in New York State: the right of counsel in civil legal matters related to human rights including the right of counsel in Housing Court.

New York City Council proposed legislation to provide counsel for low income senior citizens in Housing Court.

Ethics of Housing Court Judges: Learn how you can report the details of your housing court experience that can have an impact on the reappointment of Housing Court judges in 2008.

Reports to the Community:
Racketeering Lawsuit Against Pinnacle (Attorney Kim Powell, BRUSH (Buyers and Renters United to Save Harlem)

Abyssinian Development Corp: One of Harlem's Worst Landlords? Lisa Jones, Tenant Activist

Organizing Against Vantage Properties: Luis Tejeda, Mirabal Sisters/Valerie Orridge, President of Delano Village Tenants Association

New York City Planning Commission Approves 125th St. Rezoning, Michael Henry Adams, Harlem Historian and Author of"Harlem Lost and Found"
Legal Action to Oppose Rezoning of 125th Street, Craig Schley, VOTE People

Unity Statement:

Toward Building a United Tenant Coalition of Greater Harlem & Washington Heights.
For additional information contact the Harlem Tenants Council at 212-234-5005 or 646-812-5188. Email:Harlem tenants@gmail.com
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COME OUT AND ENJOY A MONTH OF: In Celebration of WOMEN’S HER-STORY month; The NBPP Presents, A Woman's lecture series

COME OUT AND ENJOY A MONTH OF: In Celebration of WOMEN’S HER-STORY month; The NBPP Presents, A Woman's lecture series


Don’t Miss the Following Topics:

1) Women in the Movement

2) Why Must I be Beat Down?
“Domestic Violence”

3) From Sorrorities to Street Organizations

4) Health and Wellness Amongst Women

5) Women and Business!
“Disparities in Economics”

*ALL ARE WELCOME-
Women Shelters; Group Homes; Business Owners, Schools, Artists Etc.
Place: Waset Kommuniversity
271 South 9th Street
Newark, NJ 07107

Time: 6:30pm– 8:30pm Sharp

Date: Every Monday in March
March: 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, & 31st

FEATURING: COMMUNITY LEADERS, SPECIAL GUESTS LIVE PERFORMANCES

Healthy Refreshments Available!

WOMEN’S HER-STORY TRIVIA

FOR INFO CONTACT: (973) 885-8896 (Sis. Keesha) or (973) 204-5124 (Bro. Ato)
www.newblackpanther.com

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Spring Arrives with New Arts Events at HSA!‏; Celebrate the Spirit of Women's History Month with Flautist & Composer Claudia Hayden Sat. March 15

The Arts Bloom this Spring at The Harlem School of the Arts

The Harlem School of the Arts' gets a jump-start on spring with exciting programming this month. From music performances to plays and fine art, HSA will pique the interests of everyone.

Saturday March 15th, @ 7:00pm Adults $10, Students and Seniors $8

Celebrate the Spirit of Women's History Month with Flautist & Composer Claudia Hayden. An eclectic mix of Jazz, Fusion and World Music is in store with her ensemble including:

Shai Bachar - Keyboards
Avi Rothbard - Guitar
Ilya Lishinsky - Bass
Camille Gainer - Drums
Kevin Jones - Percussion

Tuesday,
March 18th
Host Leslie Lee, playwright
6:00pm
Admission is FREE, but donations are suggested

The Negro Ensemble Company will begin their Classic Playreading Series with Eden.
Hosted by Tony-nominated playwright Leslie Lee, Eden, written by Steve Carter and directed by Barbara Montgomery, is the impassioned story of a black man from the South who falls in love with a young Jamaican woman. The young woman's strict father doesn't approve of the relationship because he's convinced that American blacks, especially those from the rural south, are vastly inferior to Caribbean blacks. Eden is the first of a trilogy of plays featuring Caribbean families in New York City.

Take Note!

Friday, March 28th through May 4th at 7:30pm: The Negro Ensemble Company performs WEBEIME written by Layon Gray. WEBEIME is the portrayal of one man's coming to terms with the repercussions of the decisions that he has made in life before the inevitable happens. With little time on his side, he searches his soul for inner peace and his mind wanders back down the road that put him in his current predicament. A beautifully-written story, WEBEIME takes its audience on a journey filled with emotional ebbs and flows that eventually leads to a dramatic climax sure to move even the most stoic audience.

Don't Forget: A Day in the Life fine art exhibition. A collection of works that together portray the historic and contemporary African-American experience. On view at HSA in the G-Space through April 4th.

For more information about these programs, please contact Alana Benoit
212) 926-4100 ext. 325

The Harlem School of the Arts
645 St. Nicholas Avenue · New York, NY 10030
(212) 926-4100 · info@harlemschoolofthearts.org

boxing entertainment fight sports mixed martial arts special events sports worldwide

NO HOLDS BARRED: Mo Lawal, Rory Markham, Pat Miletich, James Moore, Cristy Nickel, Oliva Fonseca, Bruce Silverglade, Mike O'Sullivan, Never Back Down‏

NO HOLDS BARRED: Mo Lawal, Rory Markham, Pat Miletich, James Moore, Cristy Nickel, Oliva Fonseca, Bruce Silverglade, Mike O'Sullivan, Never Back Down

http://nhbnews.podOmatic.com/entry/eg/2008-03-13T07_52_33-07_00

On this edition of NO HOLDS BARRED, host Eddie Goldman begins by reviewing the new mixed martial arts-themed film, "Never Back Down" (http://www.neverbackdownthemovie.com/), which opens in theaters Friday, March 14.

Next, we speak with one of the top freestyle wrestlers in America and the world, Mo Lawal (http://www.myspace.com/molawal). He has just signed with Team Quest (http://www.teamquestmma.com/) and plans to start his professional mixed martial arts career following the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing.

Rory Markham of the IFL will fight Emyr Bussade in a welterweight MMA fight Friday, April 4, on a card at the Izod Center in East Rutherford, N.J., popularly known as the Meadowlands. Markham is also a member of the Miletich Fighting Systems camp, led by MMA legend Pat Miletich, which will face the American Top Team in their first IFL action. We spoke with Rory Markham and Pat Miletich on a media teleconference call this week.

The annual tradition of a major boxing show at Madison Square Garden on St. Patrick’s Day weekend continues this year on Saturday, March 15, with a new headliner. Unbeaten junior middleweight James Moore (14-0, 10 KOs) of Queens, NY, via County Wicklow, Ireland, will have the toughest opponent of his pro career when he faces veteran former title challenger J.C. Candelo (27-9-4, 18 KOs). This is also only the second card being run by the new Celtic Gloves Promotions (http://www.celticgloves.com/), which was formed principally to promote Moore. This card will take place at the Theater at Madison Square Garden, and will be webcast live at GoFightLive.com (http://gofightlive.com/).

At a news conference this week, we spoke with James Moore about what to expect this Saturday night. We also spoke with women's junior middleweights Cristy Nickel (7-5, 4 KOs) and Oliva Fonseca (1-1-2), who fight each other on this card. We spoke with Bruce Silverglade, the matchmaker for Celtic Gloves Promotions, who is also the president and owner of the famed Gleason's Gym (http://gleasonsgym.net/). And we spoke with Mike O'Sullivan, co-owner of Celtic Gloves Promotions.

To listen to NO HOLDS BARRED, click the link at the start of this message, scroll down that page, and just press the play button on the player.

You can also download it by scrolling down that page and clicking on the download link (right-click to save it).

Also, NO HOLDS BARRED is available through iTunes at http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=150801513&s=143441.

The show is in MP3 format, so may take some time to download.

The NO HOLDS BARRED theme song is called "The Heist", by musician Ian Carpenter (http://iancarpenter.com/).

Make sure to check out my regular weekly boxing show SecondsOut Radio, at http://www.secondsout.com/radio/. On this week's edition of SecondsOut Radio, we begin by discussing the WBC heavyweight title fight won by Samuel Peter (30-1, 23 KOs) over Oleg Maskaev (34-6, 26 KOs) by a sixth-round stoppage, and the lightweight title fight won by Nate Campbell (32-5-1, 25 KOs) over Juan Diaz (33-1, 17 KOs) by a split decision in Cancun, Mexico. The comments of the announcers on HBO, which telecast these fights in the U.S., are particularly criticized here. We also review the cruiserweight unification bout won by David Haye (21-1, 20 KOs) over Enzo Maccarinelli (28-2, 21 KOs) by a second-round TKO in London, UK, telecast in the U.S. on Showtime and in the UK on Setanta. This coming Saturday, March 15, the long-awaited rematch between WBC super featherweight champion Juan Manuel Marquez (48-3-1, 35 KOs) and Manny Pacquiao (45-3-2, 34 KOs) finally is set to take place. In their first bout, held at featherweight on May 8, 2004, Pacquiao dropped Marquez thrice in the first round, but Marquez recovered and was able to outbox Pacquiao for much of the remainder of the fight. The result was a controversial split draw. Now they will meet again in a bout in Las Vegas which will be shown in the U.S. on HBO Pay-Per-View. We spoke with Manny Pacquiao and his trainer and confidant Freddie Roach about what to expect March 15 on a media teleconference call this past week, and have that discussion for you here. It is free to listen to SecondsOut Radio, but you must register to gain access to it. Just click here, http://www.secondsout.com/radio/, and listen, learn, and enjoy.

Make sure to check out my regular articles on the ADCC News at http://www.adcombat.com and on FightBeat.com at http://fightbeat.com.

NO HOLDS BARRED is free to listen to and is sponsored by:

YAMMA Pit Fighting (http://yammapitfighting.com). The producers of the original UFC and Live Nation (http://livenation.com/), worldwide leaders in live entertainment, present YAMMA Pit Fighting mixed martial arts. On the streets, it's against the law. In the pit, it IS the law.

IFL, the International Fight League (http://ifl.tv/), the world's first professional mixed martial arts league. Make sure to check out their regular TV shows on FSN (Fox Sports Net) (http://msn.foxsports.com/story/1636002) in the U.S., and to check your local listings for dates and times. Check out the IFL web site (http://ifl.tv/), for a listing of IFL live events and their TV schedule, at http://ifl.tv/TV-Schedule.html.

Gladiator Challenge (http://gladiatorchallenge.com/), shaking up the mixed martial arts world since 1999, and now with 30 shows per year. For more news and info, check out their web site, GladiatorChallenge.com (http://gladiatorchallenge.com/).

BJJMart.com (http://bjjmart.com), your premier source for all Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gear, videos, books, and much more.

Gladiator Magazine (http://gladmag.com/), for in-depth coverage of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, submission grappling, and MMA, as well as lifestyle articles on surfing, cars, movies, and more. Gladiator Magazine is available at any major bookstore and online at BJJMart.com (http://bjjmart.com) or Jiu Jitsu Pro Gear (http://jiujitsuprogear.com/).

FightBeat.com (http://fightbeat.com/), for news, results, interviews, and free exclusive videos from the worlds of boxing and mixed martial arts.

Thanks, Eddie Goldman

No Holds Barred blog
http://nhbnews.blogspot.com/

No Holds Barred podcast
http://nhbnews.podomatic.com/

The Boxing Standard
http://boxingstandard.com/

No Holds Barred on MySpace
http://www.myspace.com/nhbnews


Enjoy!

‏boxing entertainment fight sports mixed martial arts special events sports worldwide

DAVID DIAZ BREAKS CAMP, JETS TO LAS VEGAS FOR BATTLE WITH RAMON MONTANO‏

CHICAGO, IL- World Boxing Council Lightweight Champion David Diaz broke camp today to travel to Las Vegas, NV in anticipation of his non-title ten round bout against Ramon Montano set for this Saturday night, March 15th at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino.

Speaking after his last workout at JABB Boxing Gym, Diaz said “We’ve had a terrific camp, excellent sparring, and great conditioning. Strick and Mike (co-trainers Jim Strickland and Mike Garcia) put together a fantastic plan for me while we’ve been in Chicago, now it’s time to take care of the fight.”

About the fight being in Las Vegas, Diaz stated “It’s all business for me. This is no vacation at all. We’ve got some family and friends coming to the fight in Las Vegas and I’m sure a lot of Chicago fight fans will tune in to watch.” He also wanted to remind fans that his fight will be the first of the broadcast.

The Diaz/Montano battle will open the HBO Pay-Per View telecast of Marquez-Pacquiao II - UNFINISHED BUSINESS on March 15th at 8pm Chicago time.

Promoted by Top Rank Inc. and Golden Boy Promotions, in association with Romanza Boxing Productions and MP Promotions, Marquez-Pacquiao II will take place Saturday, March 15 at the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino and will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT.


Tickets for Marquez-Pacquiao II, priced at $600, $400, $300, $200 and $100, are on sale at the Mandalay Bay box office and at all Las Vegas Ticketmaster locations (select Smith's Food and Drug Centers, Macy's West at the Fashion Show Mall, and Ritmo Latino). Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (702) 474-4000 or Mandalay Bay (702) 632-7580. Tickets are also available for purchase at www.mandalaybay.com or www.ticketmaster.com
boxing entertainment fight sports mixed martial arts special events sports worldwide

Clampitt fighting on for love of sport; Manfredo-Benfield headline Friday night’s “Rumble at the River” at Twin River Event Center, RI

Clampitt fighting on for love of sport; Manfredo-Benfield headline Friday night’s “Rumble at the River” at Twin River Event Center, RI

PROVIDENCE– Three-time world champion Jaime “The Hurricane” Clampitt, 2007 Canadian Female Fighter of the Year, defends her IWBF lightweight crown against GBU junior welterweight title-holder Belinda “Brown Sugar” Larcuente in Friday night’s 10-round co-feature on “Rumble at the River,” part of “The Budweiser Night at the Fights,” at Twin River Events Center in Lincoln, Rhode Island.

World super middleweight challenger “The Pride of Providence” Peter Manfredo, Jr. (28-5, 13 KOs) and Shane “The Irish Hitman” Benfield (17-1, 9 KOs) headline in the 10-round main event.

Boxing warriors from the past, Vinny Paz and “Irish” Micky Ward, are serving as honorary captains of Team Italy and Team Ireland, respectively, for the Italian-Irish themed “Rumble at the River” pro boxing show, promoted by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment and Sports, Inc., in association with Twin River, Budweiser and Tournament of Contenders.

Clampitt (18-4-1, 7 KOs), fighting out of Cranston (RI), has become a fitness instructor/coach, but she continues to fight because she truly enjoys boxing. “I love this sport,” Jaime explained. “If I didn’t have passion for boxing I wouldn’t be doing it. Females don’t make millions of dollars doing this, so we have to love what we do. The day I don’t feel this way is the day I retire. I have a lot of new fans from the Battleground Gym (E. Greenwich, RI), where I train amateurs, people wanting to stay fit, those who want to lose weight, etc. They are very supportive of me and my career and follow me to where I fight.”

Larcuente’s (23-21-3, 9 KOs), deceiving record doesn’t note, at least on paper, that 21 of her last 22 bouts, dating back nearly five years, have been against world champions, including 10 world title fights.

Michelle "Mitch" Matlock, Belinda “Brown Sugar” Larcuente and Melissa Hernandez



“I know I have a tough fight on March 14,” Clampitt said. “Belinda just went the distance against the No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter in woman’s boxing, Holly Holm. She brings a lot of experience and is capable of pulling off an upset in any fight. Some of her losses and draws should have been wins because Belinda fights in everybody’s backyard. She’s been in with everybody and knows what she’s doing. I plan to defend my title with a big win.”

Benfield is coming from South Carolina to upset Manfredo in his hometown. “Fans are going to see a blast from the past,” Benfield promised. “All of that talk up there about me being a tune-up for Manfredo is BS. I hope he did more than change the tires and clean the windows. If he didn’t train hard enough he’s going to get his butt kicked.”

A pair of power-punching, fan favorites -- USBA No. 4 super middleweight Joey “KO Kid” Spina (20-1-1, 15 KOs), of Providence, and Lowell (MA) light heavyweight “Irish” Joey McCreedy (6-1, 4 KOs) -- are on the undercard in separate six-round bouts. Spina squares off against Henry Mayes (6-4-1, 3 KOs), while McCreedy tangles with Tommie Speller (4-2, 3 KOs).

Stoughton (MA) cruiserweight Chris McInerney (9-1-1, 6 KOs) meets former New England title-holder Tim “The Hammer” Flamos (19-4-1, 7 KOs), of Brockton, in a six-round rematch of a fight McInerney won by sixth round TKO last December.

Undefeated Russian middleweight Andre Nevsky (3-0, 3 KOs), of Worcester (MA), faces Eric Pinarreta (2-1, 2 KOs), of New Bedford (MA), in a four-round match. Undefeated Lynn (MA) flyweight Isander Beauchamp (3-0) takes on Gabriel Cruz (2-1), while Pawtucket junior welterweight Diego Pereira makes his pro debut against Felix “The Joker” Fernandes (4-7, 2 KOs). All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Manfredo, Spina, Flamos and Pinarreta are on Paz’ Team Italy; Benfield, Clampitt, McInerney and McCreedy are captained by Ward on Team Ireland.

Tickets for “Rumble at the River” are priced at $35.00 (ADA stage seating only), $40.00, $50.00, (Bronze), $75.00 (Silver), $100.00 (Gold) and $150.00 (Jimmy’s Platinum Club) and may be purchased by calling CES (401.724.2253/2254), going on line at www.cesboxing.com or www.twinriver.com, at the Twin River Event Center (100 Twin River Road, Lincoln, RI), or any TicketMaster location. Contact CES (401.724.2253/2254/www.cesboxing.com) or Twin River Events Center (877.82.RIVER/ www.twinriver.com) for more information. Doors open at 6 PM/ET, first bout at 7 PM/ET.

(Twin River has waived its 18+ rule for “Rumble at the River.” Anybody under the age of 18 must be accompanied at all times by an adult and they must enter through the West entrance.)
boxing entertainment fight sports mixed martial arts special events sports worldwide

Brandon “BAM BAM” Rios takes to the ring in the co-main event at MARCH BADNESS, another evening of world class professional boxing

The “Fighting Garcias Team” of Oxnard, California, will return to Chicago this Friday night, March 14th as undefeated lightweight prospect Brandon “BAM BAM” Rios takes to the ring in the co-main event at MARCH BADNESS, another evening of world class professional boxing presented by Dominic Pesoli’s 8 Count Productions, HOME OF THE BEST IN CHICAGO BOXING.

The 21 year old Rios, 15-0 with ten knockouts, will battle Kansas City native Alvin Brown, 26-10 (12KO’s) in the scheduled eight rounder. Rios is trained by the father and son duo of Eduardo Garcia and former junior lightweight champion of the world, Roberto Garcia at the famed La Colonia Youth Boxing Club in Oxnard.

Said Roberto Garcia, “We’ve always enjoyed coming to Chicago over the last few years whether it’s been with Fernando Vargas, Brandon or my brother Mikey. The crowds have been terrific to fight in front of and we’re thrilled to bring Brandon back along with my nephew Javier this time.”

In a battle of undefeated prospects, 20 year old Javier Garcia, 2-0-1 (2KO’s) will face 22 year old Michoacan, Mexico native, Jose Guzman, 5-0 (4KO’s) in a four rounder at MARCH BADNESS. Guzman currently resides in nearby Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Speaking about Rios’ preparation, Roberto would say, “Brandon has been training like a lion the last three months. We’ve had excellent sparring against (WBO featherweight champion) Steven Luevano along with my Mikey and Javier. He realizes his time is now and he’s very motivated. He’s had 15 fights and the time to make a move in the rankings is this year.”

Rios has fought twice in Chicago, dismantling Jaime Alvarado in the first round on July 15, 2005 at the Aragon Ballroom in his local debut and winning an eight round battle over Humberto Tapia on December 22, 2006 at Cicero Stadium. The Rios/Tapia war was one of the finest clashes of the year in the SOLO BOXEO Friday night series.

In his last bout, Rios won a six round slugfest over Carlos Madrid on May 25, 2007 in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Brown’s eleven year career is highlighted by battles with world champions and highly ranked fighters including Wayne McCullough, Rogers Mtagwa, Priest Smalls, Marcos Ramirez, Emmanuel Lucero and Edel Ruiz.

MARCH BADNESS is headlined by an outstanding lightweight clash between former world champion Javier “EL Chatito” Jauregui and world ranked contender Miguel “EL Anestesista “Huerta.

Along with Dominic Pesoli's 8 Count Productions and Bob Arum’s Top Rank Incorporated, MARCH BADNESS is presented by TCF Bank, Tecate Beer and AeroMexico, Mexico’s premier airline travel headquarters. The SOLO BOXEO TECATE broadcast will be viewed in 42 US markets and 70 foreign countries.

The full MARCH BADNESS card is as follows;

Javier Jauregui vs. Miguel Huerta, twelve rounds, lightweights

Brandon Rios vs. Alvin Brown, eight rounds, lightweights

Victor Polyakov vs. Derrick Findley, eight rounds, middleweights

Leo Martinez vs. Miguel Angel Figueroa, six rounds, lightweights

Gadiel Andaluz vs. Fred Fleming, four rounds, lightweights

Javier Garcia vs. Jose Guzman, four rounds lightweights

As part of the evening’s events, a drawing for an autographed pair if boxing gloves signed by Juan Manuel Marquez and Manny Pacquaio will be held between fights. Marquez and Pacquaio will battle the following night, Saturday, March 15th at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.

The Master of Ceremonies for MARCH BADNESS will be Lupe Contreras, the internationally recognized voice of Latino boxing.

The open to the public weigh-in for MARCH BADNESS will take place on Thursday, March 13th at 7pm at EL Jimador Restaurant, 1600 N. Mannheim Rd in Stone Park, just north of Lake St.


8 Count Productions was started by Dominic Pesoli in 1998 and has consistently presented the highest quality professional boxing events in Chicagoland. In 2003, Pesoli along with former featherweight contender Mike Garcia opened JABB Boxing Gym, a 6,000 square foot venue dedicated to the finest Chicagoland boxers of all talent levels.

To view the seating chart and poster for this event or for more information on 8 Count Productions and JABB Boxing Gym, please visit www.8countproductions.com and www.jabbboxinggym.com

For more information on Bob Arum’s Top Rank Incorporated, please visit

www.toprank.com

CREATING CONTENDERS SINCE 1998

Bernie Bahrmasel

Publicist/8 Count Productions

www.8countproductions.com

boxing entertainment fight sports mixed martial arts special events sports worldwide

“A FISTFUL OF SHAMROCKS” SHOW AT MADISON SQUARE GARDEN ON MARCH 15TH

The final press conference for the pre-St. Patrick’s Day Madison Square Garden extravaganza called “A Fistful of Shamrocks” was held today, March 10th, at Jack Demsey’s Irish pub on East 33rd Street in midtown Manhattan. The show is being promoted by the newly created Celtic Ropes Promotions (www.celticgloves.com).

The 10 round main event features undefeated James Moore, 14-0 (10 KOS), a native of County Wicklow, Ireland, who fights out of Queens. He is facing the seasoned veteran and former world title challenger J.C. Candelo, 27-9-4 (18 KOS), of Colombia.

In the co-feature, New York’s other undefeated junior middleweight sensation Pawel “Raging Bull” Wolak, 19-0 (13 KOS), a native of Debica, Poland, who resides in Arlington, New Jersey, will square off against Dupre “Total Package” Strickland, 18-2-1 (7 KOS), of Shreveport, Louisiana.

Also featured will be lightweight Oisin Fagan, 20-5 (15 KOS), of Oklahoma City via Dublin; super middleweight Simon “Slick Fighting Irish” O’Donnell, 5-1 (2 KOS) of County Galway, Ireland; London junior welterweight Steve O’Meara, who will be making his pro debut; featherweight Jae Sung Lee, 8-1 (5 KOS), of Hanam, Korea; bantamweight Khabir Suleymanov, 2-0 (1 KO), of Ukraine; featherweight Joe Rosa, 1-2-1, of Puerto Rico; welterweight Luis Ruiz, 2-0, of Puebla, Mexico; welterweight Martin Wright, 4-0-1, of Brooklyn; and middleweight Bryant Pappas, 5-0 (5 KOS), a hard-punching Yonkers, New York, police officer.

A special junior middleweight female attraction features Cristy “Code Red” Nickel, 7-5 (4 KOS), of New York, vs. Oliva Fonseca, 1-1-2 (1 KO) of Philadelphia. Nickel, who counts Katie Couric among her A-list of clients, was recently named one of the top personal trainers in New York by Allure magazine.

Other luminaries in attendance included New York State Athletic Commissioner Ron Scott Stevens; longtime promoters and trainers Lou Duva and Don Elbaum; and matchmaker Bruce Silverglade.

Here’s what everyone had to say:

James Moore: “I could have taken an easier fight, but I didn’t want to. I didn’t want to just knock someone out and not learn anything. I need to take the right steps at the right time, and that’s what this fight against Candelo is about. I can’t wait to show everyone what I’m made of.”

James Moore and Kristal Hart


Harry Keitt, trainer of James Moore: “We took no shortcuts because we took this fight very seriously. James is in tremendous shape. I wish Pawel luck, but I have the future champion in James Moore.”

Pawel Wolak: “I train right, not just hard. I stay healthy and eat natural. I’m even reading books on nutrition. My full potential is still two years off, but I am getting stronger and more ready in each fight.

Pawel Wolak
”

Patrick Ford, two-time featherweight title challenger and trainer of Wolak: “People said Pawel won’t go anywhere because he’s a white guy. Well, that’s the end of that conversation. Pawel is a great fighter because he comes to fight, not to dance or box. Once the bell rings, he never stops punching.”

Ivan Edwards, manager of Wolak: “Pawel does whatever it takes to win: knees, elbows, etc. When we started working together, he told me he had four dreams: to fight in Atlantic City, Poland, MSG and Chicago, where there are lots of Polish fans. On March 15th he will have accomplished three of them. All that is left is fighting in Chicago.”

Cristy Nickel: “Thank you to Celtic Gloves for allowing me to showcase my talents at MSG, which is the place to be on March 15th. I’m thrilled to be part of such a great show.”

Oliva Fonseca: “I’m honored to be fighting in New York, at MSG, against Cristy Nickel. I’ve heard she is a very good fighter.”

Jae Sung Lee: (through interpreter Pearl Kim): “I am young and passionate and honored to fight in New York and at MSG. My preparation is going well. I want to prove something in America.”

Ron Scott Stevens: “I commend Celtic Gloves and am very proud of the shows they’ve been doing and how much they respect the rules and regulations.”

Lou Duva: “This is the way to do things, with all of these different nationalities. Celtic Gloves should be commended for putting on this show. You put on a show like this and people will talk about it for a long time.”

Don Elbaum: “This is an incredible fight card because James and Pawel are exciting and honest boxing prospects. Ireland and Poland are very proud of them. We will see them both knocking on the door for world titles very soon.”

In addition to boxing, live Irish music will be performed by the band “Big Girl’s Blouse.”

Door open at 6:30 P.M. and the fights will begin at 7:00 P.M. Tickets, which range from $400 to $50, can be purchased through Ticketmaster at 866-448-7849 or by calling Celtic Gloves at 917-559-8467 or Gleason’s Gym at 718-797-2872.

For sponsorship and advertising opportunities, contact Mike O’Sullivan at 516-242-0428

Check out Celtic Gloves Promotions on the web at: www.celticgloves.com

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SecondsOut Radio: Marquez-Pacquiao 2 Preview, Weekend Review‏

SecondsOut Radio: Marquez-Pacquiao 2 Preview, Weekend Review On this week's edition of SecondsOut Radio, at http://www.secondsout.com/radio/,host Eddie Goldman begins by reviewing this past weekend's major fights. We discuss the WBC heavyweight title fight won by Samuel Peter (30-1,23 KOs) over Oleg Maskaev (34-6, 26 KOs) by a sixth-round stoppage,and the lightweight title fight won by Nate Campbell (32-5-1, 25 KOs)over Juan Diaz (33-1, 17 KOs) by a split decision in Cancun, Mexico.The comments of the announcers on HBO, which telecast these fights in the U.S., are particularly criticized here. We also review the cruiserweight unification bout won by David Haye (21-1, 20 KOs) over Enzo Maccarinelli (28-2, 21 KOs) by a second-round TKO in London, UK, telecast in the U.S. on Showtime and in the UK on Setanta. This coming Saturday, March 15, the long-awaited rematch between WBC super featherweight champion Juan Manuel Marquez (48-3-1, 35 KOs) and Manny Pacquiao (45-3-2, 34 KOs) finally is set to take place. In their first bout, held at featherweight on May 8, 2004, Pacquiao dropped Marquez thrice in the first round, but Marquez recovered and was able to outbox Pacquiao for much of the remainder of the fight. The result was a controversial split draw. Now they will meet again in a bout in Las Vegas which will be shown in the U.S. on HBO Pay-Per-View. We spoke with Manny Pacquiao and his trainer and confidant Freddie Roach about what to expect March 15 on a media teleconference call this past week, and have that discussion for you here. It is free to listen to SecondsOut Radio, but you must register to gain access to it. Just click here, http://www.secondsout.com/radio/,and listen, learn, and enjoy. Thanks, Eddie Goldman No Holds Barred bloghttp://nhbnews.blogspot.com/ No Holds Barred podcasthttp://nhbnews.podomatic.com/ The Boxing Standardhttp://boxingstandard.com/ No Holds Barred on MySpacehttp://www.myspace.com/nhbnewsboxing entertainment fight sports mixed martial arts special events sports worldwide

LEGENDARY TELEVISION PRODUCER/WRITER Darlene Lewis releases tell all historical hiphop novel

Harlem, New York- Darlene Lewis, first female host/producer of any hiphop music video talk show (circa 1984 - ON BROADWAY, FIRST EXPOSURE AND GOLDIE'S HOT RAPS) on Paragon Cable, and presently producer of Celebrity Showcase TV on Time Warner Cable Channel, has released a pictorial and historical novel entitled Hiphop Before the Bling. The book takes you back from the early days of partying in the Bronx in the Parks, to Manhattan's club scenes, as Darlene Takes you on a hiphop musical stroll through her various dealings with legendary producers Strafe (Set it off), Donald Dee (Milira, SWV) and DJ Barry Bee and Doug E Fresh. Hiphop before the bling actually shows behind the scenes footage of the shows Darlene Lewis interviewed such acts as KRS 1, Tribe Called Quest, in their earlier stages of their career. Hiphop Before the Bling will take you back to the 371 Club Days, the Kennedy Center and 22 West Club days, to the Renaissance, Bronx River and Cedar Park parties.

Contact Future Network Productions 646 548 9501
for interviews or to showcase your product, goods and services on TV Contact producers of Celebrity Showcase Television

MEET THE AUTHOR AT THE LEGENDS OF FUNK AND HIPHOP CONCERT MARCH 22, 2008 - KENNEDY CENTER...HAVE YOUR COPY OF BOOK SIGNED. SPECIAL TAPING TAKING PLACE, BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION FOR DARLENE LEWIS


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